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cavovarus foot

My arch is high, foot rigid and flexed so that the first metatarsal head is prominent and vulnerable to pressure and blisters. Heels in varus. I am finding it difficult to get suitable orthotics. Subsequently have also experienced ankle problems...have had torn peroneal and bilateral tarsal tunnel. Would appreciate suggestions for orthotics and how to find a suitable practitioner. Very frustrating to be sidelined from activities.

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First of all, it is not generally wise to be going to a doctor asking for a specific mode of treatment. It may be that orthotics have not been successful because orthotics may not be indicated. I cannot say that as fact, as I have not examined you, but it may be that your search for orthotics to solve your problem is a useless endeavor. A cavus foot is one of the more difficult to live with and to deal with podiatrically. Orthotics may or may not be useful, but fitting it and the foot in the shoe is often a problem, as oxford shoes are generally the most appropriate style for use with orthotics, and the fact that your foot is already high-arched and rigid, the additional bulk in the shoe created by the orthotic often causes painful fitting problems in the upper of the shoe. If your podiatrist feels that orthotics are the way to go, it is up to him/her to figure out a method of your being able to use them with comfort. Other than by honest peer reputation, I don't know any real way to find the most suitable practitioner for you. In the end, you may have to recognize that with your foot type and with the other foot problems you have experienced you may be relegated to more of the sideline than you would like. Strange, but those with medical problems such as heart problems or other chronic diseases seem to understand and accept that, but podiatric patients are often of the opinion that if something cannot be totally and permanently cured, then the care is worthless.